New York maple producers argue for uniform labels

GLENS FALLS -- A local maple producer says uniform labeling is good for the industry because it will promote wholesale buying, leading to increased demand and higher prices.

At present, Canada, Vermont and New York all make similar grades of syrup, but they're called different things in each place.

For example, Vermont's top quality syrup is called fancy, while in New York the same color syrup is called light amber.

"If you went into a store, which one would you buy?" said Mike Bennett, an Upper Hudson Maple Producers Association board member from Glens Falls.

Some Vermont producers don't want to give up the "fancy" designation. But creating uniform labeling between states and provinces makes it easier for the industry to market large amounts of syrup to international buyers in Europe and Asia, Bennett said.

As global demand goes up, the price that producers get for their syrup will rise, too, he said.